Zomato To Launch Grocery Delivery Service Amid COVID-19 Outbreak

Zomato is said to be in discussion with e-grocers BigBasket and Grofers to sell essentials and food products on its platform. The Indian-based food delivery app is targeting grocery as part of its diversification plan after the COVID-19 outbreak has brought in more orders for its delivery service. The proposed service will be launched as Zomato Market this week.

An unnamed source stated that the pandemic led to people buying more household items and food products. This venture would be a win-win situation for all parties.

Another source said that the grocery delivery service of Zomato would be launched first in Delhi NCR before expanded to more locations in the country. Consumers can find offline stores that work with Grofers on Zomato’s app. After placing an order, all items will be delivered by Zomato.

Over the past week, online food ordering service has witnessed a 20 percent decrease while e-grocers have experienced an exponential rise because of panic buying. Besides Zomato, its rival Swiggy has also been stepping up its game in this segment. In the online grocery business, the company has already made a small presence but is now planning on expanding its operations.

The outbreak first started out in Wuhan, China and since then, it has spread to over 160 countries around the world. 336,000 cases have been recorded with over 14,600 deaths. India has 396 total confirmed cases with 7 deaths. 75 districts in the country have entered full lockdown. All rail movements have been stopped. Preventing the spread of the virus, many state governments have shut down colleges, schools, colleges until March 31st. Restaurants are facing a huge loss in profit as people avoid public places in fear of COVID-19. Travelers arriving at the Indian borders will have their body temperatures checked by the medical staff.

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